Here’s a look at the 36 races for governor this year

VPM | By Acacia Squires, Larry Kaplow, Alyson Hurt, Meredith Nierman and Brent Jones

Published May 5, 2026 at 1:34 PM EDT

Here’s a look at the 36 races for governor this year

During the midterm elections, much of the country’s attention is on the balance of power in Congress, but voters in 36 states will also have a say in electing a governor this year. There is a lot at stake.

Across the country, Republicans hold 26 governor offices to Democrats’ 24. Eight years ago, Democrats won seven governorships held by Republicans. This year, many of those state executives are term-limited, and Republicans could be in a position to win back some states.

And there are a good number of close races. At this early stage, November contests look close in Arizona, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Nevada, Ohio and Wisconsin.

Here’s a look at each race for governor in 2026 »

Here’s a look at the 36 races for governor this year

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